Scu's View on the Cheltenham Festival clues from the weekend

Irish Hennessy winner Sir Des Champs got a more positive ride from Davy Russell and his jumping improved, probably because he raced on slightly better ground than when fourth in the Lexus Chase.

A dual Cheltenham Festival winner, he's a proven track performer, relishes the climb to the finishing line and a major Gold Cup player.

Positive ride: Davy Russell holds the Irish Hennessy Gold Cup aloft

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If you lack stamina, tactics don't matter - the tank still empties just the same.

Held up Flemenstar showed that when second to Sir Des Champs in Leopardstown's Hennessy Gold Cup. His team haven't seemed impressed by the prospect of running in the Ryanair Chase (2m 5f) at the Festival but that looks his best option.

Even taking on Sprinter Sacre in the two-mile Queen Mother Champion Chase would be exciting.

Very much second best: Sir Des Champs easily accounted for Flemenstar (left)

My choice

My Tent Or Yours impressively won Newbury's Betfair Hurdle under AP McCoy. Make A Stand did the Betfair/ Champion Hurdle double in 1997 and there are understandable questions raised about whether this novice should take that route.

I'd favour sticking to the Supreme Novices' Hurdle for a very talented but still immature horse.